Flu test positivity in Monterey County has hit 9%, according to county epidemiologist Kristy Michie. That is nine times the 1% rate recorded at this point in each of the past two seasons.

The surge, first reported by Monterey County NOW, puts the county where it normally stands after Thanksgiving. Michie, assistant director of public health for the County of Monterey, said flu-related medical visits are climbing.

Statewide, at least 47 adults have died from flu-related complications since August, according to Monterey County NOW.

"Now is the time," Michie said. "To wait until later is not a good strategy."

Whether anyone in Monterey County has been hospitalized for flu remains unclear. Hospitals are not required to report flu admissions, Michie told Monterey County NOW.

Who should get vaccinated

California recommends the flu vaccine for anyone 6 months and older. The health department flagged several groups at higher risk for serious illness: children under 5, adults 65 and older, pregnant women and people with underlying medical conditions.

Free and low-cost clinics

The Monterey County Health Department is partnering with schools and health care agencies to offer no-cost flu shots across the county in fall 2026. No appointment, ID or insurance card is required at county clinics. Anyone 6 months and older is welcome; children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Central Coast VNA & Hospice is running drive-up clinics from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Friday through Oct. 30 at 5 Lower Ragsdale Drive in Monterey. No appointment is needed. The nonprofit accepts Aspire Health Plan and Medicare Part B for billing. Out-of-pocket prices are $45 for a standard flu shot (ages 5–64), $45 for FluMist (ages 2–49) and $140 for a high-dose vaccine (65 and older).

VNA nurses also make in-home visits for homebound Monterey County residents. Call 831-648-3777 for details.

Upcoming flu clinic dates

  • Friday, Oct. 16: Central Coast VNA & Hospice curbside clinic, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., 5 Lower Ragsdale Drive, Monterey
  • Friday, Oct. 23: Central Coast VNA & Hospice curbside clinic, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., 5 Lower Ragsdale Drive, Monterey
  • Friday, Oct. 30: Central Coast VNA & Hospice curbside clinic, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., 5 Lower Ragsdale Drive, Monterey